We recently explored what it means to be a community foundation, bringing together community-minded individuals, families, businesses and institutions to make a difference in Boulder County. This month – my first as The Community Foundation’s new Board Chair – I’d like to go deeper, exploring what it means to be transparent in the ways we operate and respond to the needs of our community.
As we celebrate our 25th anniversary this year, we’re renewing our commitment to openness and transparency regarding our financials and investments, our operations and how we make grants. Not only do we owe it to our donors, community partners and other supporters, being transparent is one way we earn your trust and grow our credibility – and impact – countywide.
The way we see it, anything less than full disclosure about who we are, how we work and whom we serve would be a disconnect with our mission to exist as a catalyst for change and improved quality of life in Boulder County. As a foundation, being open with the nonprofits we fund – and those that may seek funding from us in future – is also one of the ways in which we inspire action and serve the public good.
Our website (soon to be updated), publicly available annual reports, TRENDS report and other communications clearly spell out not only what we do and how we do it, but also what is or isn’t working in our collective efforts to address the needs and challenges of everyone who calls Boulder County home.
While the field of philanthropy, as a whole, is described by some as “weak” in sharing lessons learned, we’re of the firm belief that we can only make a difference if we remain nimble, responsive and honest about whether our grantmaking – based on rigorous research and informed decision making – is hitting the mark. If things don’t go as planned – if we don’t achieve a measurable positive impact – we’re quick to change course, recognizing that there are no one-size-fits-all solutions.
As a foundation, we galvanize people, resources and information to ignite action around our community’s most pressing – and potential future – needs. It’s a responsibility we take very seriously. In fact, as part of our emphasis on establishing a culture of giving in Boulder County, we seek to lead by example: our own culture is one of collecting information and sharing knowledge so that all of us can better serve our neighbors and community members.
By being transparent, bringing diverse people to the table and funding new ideas, we lead the way in how our community’s key challenges are identified and addressed. At the same time, of course, we respect and maintain donor confidentiality at all times.
Please feel free to reach out to me, the other board members, and/or our amazing staff to find out more about the foundation, how we work and whom we serve.
